The screening of Shahid, the biographical drama that brought Shahid Azmi’s story to the big screen, was graced by an array of notable personalities from the film industry, including director Hansal Mehta, actor Rajkummar Rao, actress Prabhleen Sandhu, and casting director Mukesh Chhabra, among others. The event was a celebration of the film’s remarkable legacy, a story that not only captured the heart of the audience but also held a special place in the hearts of the filmmakers.
Hansal Mehta, in a moment of reflection, spoke passionately about the film. “This is one film that I can watch with pride,” he said. “I can watch it over and over again. There are some films in your filmography that you watch with a sense of pride, even the mistakes, you take pride in them. You take pride in everything about the film. It takes you back to the process and reminds you why you are making movies and why you are in this business in the first place.” His words echoed the deep connection he still feels for Shahid, a project that holds immense personal significance.
Mehta went on to acknowledge the challenges and complexities of the filmmaking process, especially in today’s time, where grand budgets and elaborate entourages are often the norm. He remarked, “It’s good to sometimes revisit the film, even though I’m scared of being nostalgic. Nostalgia can be dilapidating, but sometimes it’s good to revisit such work because we’ve become spoilt over time with huge crores, huge entourages, and yet we don’t have the purity. This is to remind you that you were in a more honest and pure time, not very far away.”
The film Shahid, which tells the life story of human rights activist Shahid Azmi, remains a poignant reminder of the power of honest storytelling and the importance of staying true to one’s craft, regardless of the industry's ever-evolving landscape. The film's success, particularly Rajkummar Rao’s powerful performance as Shahid Azmi, is a testament to the dedication and authenticity behind its creation, marking a milestone in both the director and actor’s careers. The screening served as a moment to not only celebrate the film’s success but also reflect on the purity and integrity that went into its making.